3. The right to a safe, dignified and quality service

This right is about how services are delivered. When people are ill or need care, they should expect high quality services that are safe, will help make them better or make their lives easier.

They should also expect to be treated like a human being, being looked after by people who are compassionate. Those we spoke to felt very strongly about this, pointing out the good and the bad.

“My Nan’s 87, she paid into the system all her life. She’s been out and worked. It’s a basic human right. She needs her toenails cut. You wouldn’t leave a dog in pain. You shouldn’t leave a human.”

What this could mean in practice

If you are in a care home and can’t go the toilet alone, staff should offer support in a timely fashion and give you the privacy you want. You should not be left to wet your bed or strain your body while you try to hold it in.

If you have a learning disability and are undergoing surgery, you should expect the specialist to talk to you (if you want them to) about the surgery: what it will feel like, what the benefits might be and any possible side effects. They should do this using language you will understand. They should not withhold any information if you want to know more.

If you receive a health or social care service, you should expect the building to be well maintained, cleaned regularly and contain the equipment needed to support the people using it.